What is Microneedling Treatment for Hair: A Complete Guide

Losing around 50-100 strands of hair each day is a part of the natural hair growth cycle that consists of three phases- growth, rest and fall, respectively. This hair-shedding process involves replacing old hair with new ones. Hair loss, on the other hand, is different from hair shedding. In hair loss conditions, we lose more hair strands each day which are easily visible on the floor, comb and towel. Hair loss may occur due to a lot of internal and external factors. Some cases can be treated, while others can only be slowed down.

Microneedling treatment  is performed on the scalp to boost hair growth. A microneedling device is a roller with several needles embedded in it. When rolled on the scalp, the roller leads to minor injuries on the skin surface, which rejuvenates the hair follicle health and promotes growth or hair thickening. Conditions like alopecia areata and pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia show good improvement after this treatment.

Microneedling was primarily used to treat scars and acne in the late 90s. Later they were found helpful in the treatment of multiple hair loss conditions. There are many benefits of micro-needling for hair loss, including:

• Helps Induce Stem Cells 

Microneedling helps to stimulate the stem cells to grow, thereby helping in hair growth.

• Facilitate Product Absorption 

The micro-needling treatment promotes the absorption of products like minoxidil and topical steroids. After applying topical creams, rolling the microneedle roller facilitates in-depth absorption that helps rejuvenate the scalp and treats hair loss conditions like androgenic alopecia and alopecia areata. 

• Release of growth factors

 Microneedling helps in the release of growth factors which ultimately stimulate hair growth. 

• Improved Hair Thickness and Density

Thinning hair often accompanies hair loss concerns. Microneedling addresses this issue by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which contribute to improved hair thickness and density. The result is hair that not only grows but also appears fuller and more voluminous.

The notion of microneedling for hair loss is based on producing controlled micro-injuries to the scalp. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing process, which includes the production of growth factors. These growth factors encourage hair follicle regeneration, which may result in hair regrowth. Furthermore, microneedling improves blood circulation to the scalp, resulting in improved nutrient and oxygen supply to hair follicles.

The trichologist may apply a topical anaesthetic cream to your scalp 45-30 minutes before the treatment to minimise any pain. The cream is then removed, and the area is cleaned thoroughly using betadine and normal saline. The roller is then rolled on your scalp. It typically takes around 10- 20 minutes to perform this procedure. Upon completing the treatment, the hair doctor may apply certain other growth factor serums depending on the need for an effective treatment. This is followed by cleaning the area again, which completes the procedure.

Micro-needling for hair loss is an effective treatment; however, it has some side effects, including:

• Redness and Swelling 

The roller may lead to redness, inflammation and swelling that goes away as time passes by. 

• Scalp Pain 

Few people might develop scalp pain post-procedure. 

• Infection 

The micro-needling procedure may lead to scalp infection. 

The roller must not be used if you are on blood thinners or there is some local scalp infection. The scalp becomes highly sensitive after the treatment, and thus right aftercare is very much required. You must prevent any infection as it may nullify the positive effects of the treatment. Take proper measures and look after your treatment area after the procedure to prevent redness, swelling and inflammation. Keep your scalp clean, apply proper creams and take prescribed medicines on time as instructed by your dermatologist.

After undergoing microneedling for hair loss, it’s important to follow specific aftercare instructions:

Keep the Scalp Clean: Maintain good scalp hygiene to avoid infection and guarantee proper recovery.

Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: To avoid potential problems, avoid direct sun exposure on your treated scalp.

Follow Dermatologist’s Advice: For the greatest results, follow any additional recommendations provided by your dermatologist.